If you have not already done so, please review my report from this year’s International Justice Mission (IJM) Advocacy Summit. As promised, I am providing the next steps for you to support the estimated 27 million voiceless victims who are currently trapped in human trafficking.
This is what’s happening right now on the political scene:
Congress is completing research to identify working models and they are looking to invest in proven methods that combat modern-day slavery. The good news is there are dozens of proven anti-trafficking models around the world that have rescued and restored victims, brought perpetrators of slavery to justice, and protected whole communities by deterring trafficking and slavery. IJM, World Vision, Free the Slaves, and Solidarity Center have all worked on successful models.
One of the highlights of the summit was visiting our senator and congressional offices with bags and bags of signed postcards from constituents from our state—we literally gave them hundreds if not one thousand signed postcards. Great job, North Carolina! Your prayers and signatures from our previous 100 postcard challenge were critical for the passing of the Trafficking Victims Protections Reauthorization Act (TVPRA). This act included a provision that authorized Child Protection Compacts—a multi-year, targeted funding for countries that have the will to combat child trafficking but lack capacity.
As a result of the success of the TVPRA, IJM has launched another 100 post card challenge. This particular challenge encourages your representatives to support focus-country investment. Bills have been introduced in both the House and Senate.
Your signature asks your representative(s) to seek a bipartisan collaboration on a comprehensive plan to end slavery by supporting proven successful focused country models, scaling up existing successful anti-slavery initiatives, and making slavery eradication a diplomatic priority in every country where it exists.
You can be a voice for the voiceless. Let Congress know that you care about the important work of the Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Office (some of which I outlined previously) by asking your Representative to support HR 2283. This link takes you directly to IJM’s Freedom Commons Website where you can connect with a community of those who are working to combat modern-day slavery.
“Defend the cause of the weak and fatherless; maintain the rights of the poor and oppressed. Rescue the weak and needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked (Psalm 82: 3-4 [NIV].”
* All factual information provided by International Justice Mission.
Blessings, Natasha
© Natasha Sistrunk Robinson 2013
A SISTA'S JOURNEY 